Protein journey inside cells: how can mathematical modeling and
data analysis help?

Abstract: The cellular cytoskeleton is made up of protein polymers (filaments) that are essential in proper cell and neuronal function as well as in developmental processes. These filaments represent the roads along which most proteins get transported to their cellular destinations. I will discuss several examples where questions about interactions between filament roads and protein cargo require the development of novel mathematical modeling, analysis, and simulation. These tools include partial differential equations, stochastic processes, and topological data analysis, and the applications include egg cell development and proper neuronal function.